Training, Nutrition, and More Built for the Kiwi Fitness Community
Discover insightful articles, expert tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your fitness journey.
Discover insightful articles, expert tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your fitness journey.
Recent research from MIT has shed light on an incredible connection between our muscles and neurons. This study found that when muscles contract, they release biochemical signals called myokines, which actively help neurons grow. In fact, exposing neurons to myokines resulted in a remarkable fourfold increase in neuron growth, suggesting that the effects of strength training reach far beyond physical fitness—they extend to brain health and potentially to neurological healing.
The lateral raise machine often sits in the corner of gyms, untouched and underappreciated compared to its free-weight counterparts. But is it really an ineffective piece of equipment, or are gym-goers overlooking its potential?
As women age, their bodies go through various changes, including a slower metabolism, decreased muscle mass, reduced bone density, and hormonal shifts. These changes highlight the importance of choosing the right exercises to stay fit and strong. However, not all exercises are created equal. Certain workouts can enhance strength, mobility, and overall wellness, while others may put unnecessary strain on joints or increase the risk of injury.
Looking to build strength and muscle without spending hours in the gym every day? A 3-day split workout might be the perfect solution for you! With this plan, you can focus on different muscle groups each day, allowing ample recovery time and maximizing your gains. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the benefits of a 3-day split workout and provide a sample routine to get you started.
The “Arnold Split” is a legendary workout routine popularized by none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger, the seven-time Mr. Olympia and iconic figure in bodybuilding. His unique training split is designed to maximize muscle hypertrophy (growth) by focusing on high volume, frequency, and intensity. This article will explore who the Arnold Split is for, its benefits, and frequently asked questions about the program.
The goblet squat was developed by renowned strength coach Dan John to simplify learning proper squat technique. Its name is derived from the way the individual holds a dumbbell or kettlebell in front of the chest, resembling a goblet. Initially designed to teach beginners the squat’s biomechanics, the exercise has grown in popularity across various fitness levels due to its simplicity and effectiveness.
If you’re looking to build muscle, increase strength, and stay consistent in the gym, having a structured workout schedule can make a huge difference. A 5-day gym workout plan strikes a perfect balance between intensity and recovery, allowing you to train different muscle groups while giving them enough rest to grow and recover. Here’s a sample 5-day gym workout schedule designed to maximize results.
The Valencia diet is a regional variation of the Mediterranean diet, renowned for its health benefits and rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Valencia, Spain. Numerous studies have confirmed that the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes whole foods like fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and seafood, is one of the most heart-healthy and sustainable diets in the world. A landmark study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that those following a Mediterranean diet had a 30% lower risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death compared to those on a low-fat diet.
In the world of fitness, the term “PR” is an acronym for *personal record*. This represents the best performance an individual has achieved in a particular exercise or lift. Whether it’s lifting a certain weight for a deadlift, running a mile in record time, or completing more reps of push-ups than ever before, a PR marks the peak of personal accomplishment in training.
If you’re gearing up for a marathon, you’re probably well aware that race day is the culmination of months of training, dedication, and mental toughness. But one key aspect that often gets overlooked is what you eat the night before the big race. Your pre-race meal is critical to ensuring you have the energy and stamina to perform at your best. But what should you eat? Let’s dive into some popular meals marathoners swear by the night before the race.
When building your home gym, you want to make the most of the space and equipment you have. Not everyone has room for all three gym setups — a gym room, weight room, and workout room — so it’s important to decide what’s best for your fitness goals, available space, and budget. Here’s how to choose which room to focus on and what equipment is essential for each.
When it comes to building upper body strength, the triceps play a critical role. Comprising three heads — the lateral, medial, and long head — the triceps account for about two-thirds of your upper arm. Incorporating tricep exercises into your routine helps develop strength and enhances the aesthetics of your arms. And the best part? You don’t need fancy equipment. A pair of dumbbells and some dedication can get the job done. Here’s a breakdown of the best tricep workouts you can do with dumbbells.
Maintaining a strong core during pregnancy is crucial for supporting your body through the many changes it experiences. While traditional core workouts like crunches and planks may not be appropriate, there are plenty of prenatal-friendly exercises that safely engage your abdominal muscles, strengthen your lower back, and prepare you for labor. In this article, we’ll dive into safe prenatal core exercises and how you can incorporate a yoga ball into your prenatal workout routine for better stability and comfort.
Pull-ups are one of the ultimate tests of upper body strength. They engage your back, shoulders, arms, and core, making them an excellent benchmark for overall fitness. But how many pull-ups are considered "strong"? The answer depends on factors like your fitness level, body weight, and goals. In this article, we'll break down pull-up standards, what qualifies as strong performance, and how to improve your pull-up ability.
Building a strong and defined middle back can elevate your overall physique and improve posture. The middle back, which includes muscles like the rhomboids, trapezius, and lower lats, plays a crucial role in providing stability, pulling strength, and supporting functional movements. Below are the seven best exercises that specifically target the middle back, helping you achieve both strength and aesthetic goals.
Traveling often means breaking from your usual routines, but that doesn’t mean your fitness has to take a vacation! Hotel rooms might be small and lack a gym, but you can still get a great workout with just your bodyweight and minimal equipment. Here are 10 hotel exercises you can do anywhere to keep yourself fit and energized, no matter where you are.
When it comes to building muscle and strength, a well-structured 6-day gym workout schedule can help you maximize your progress. This plan focuses on targeting different muscle groups each day, ensuring that you avoid overtraining while allowing enough recovery time for each muscle group. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate lifter, a 6-day split can fast-track your gains if followed correctly.
In today’s fast-paced world, achieving weight loss goals can be challenging. Traditional methods often require significant time and effort, and many find it difficult to stay consistent and motivated. Enter Artificial Intelligence (AI) — a revolutionary technology that’s transforming the way we approach fitness and weight loss. With AI-driven solutions like those offered by Kiwi Fitness, reaching your goals has never been more personalized, efficient, and accessible.
Dumbbells are a powerful tool in any strength training routine, offering a wide range of exercises that can target specific muscle groups. Whether you’re looking to build strength, tone up, or improve overall fitness, this list of dumbbell exercises by muscle group will help you structure your workouts for maximum effectiveness.
In today’s fitness landscape, the demand for personalization and convenience is higher than ever. Traditional workout routines and the need for in-person personal training sessions are quickly being supplemented, and in some cases replaced, by AI virtual trainers. These AI-powered solutions are revolutionizing fitness by offering tailored gym workout plans that adapt to your individual needs, goals, and progress, all with the convenience of being accessible anytime, anywhere.
The squat is a fundamental exercise for building lower body strength, improving athletic performance, and enhancing overall fitness. While traditional barbell squats are a staple in many workout routines, the squat machine offers a unique alternative that can be just as effective, especially for those looking for added stability or specific training goals.In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of using a squat machine, provide a comprehensive workout routine, and offer tips to maximize your results.
Astrology and fitness might seem like an odd pairing, but for those who like to live by the stars, your zodiac sign can offer insights into the types of exercises you might naturally gravitate toward. Whether you’re sweating it out in the gym or finding zen in yoga, here’s a fun, star-inspired guide to the best strength workouts for each zodiac sign — complete with a few jokes and anecdotes from fellow zodiac enthusiasts.
Astrology can guide many aspects of our lives, from career choices to relationships. But have you ever wondered how it might influence your fitness journey? Whether you’re a fiery Aries or a grounded Taurus, your zodiac sign can offer insights into the best strength training routine for you. Here’s a breakdown of how each sign should approach strength training to maximize their fitness potential, complete with a specific exercise recommendation for each.
Olympic athletes are the epitome of physical prowess, combining unparalleled strength, speed, and endurance. Strength training is a cornerstone of their training regimen, designed to enhance performance, prevent injuries, and achieve peak physical condition. This article explores the rigorous and meticulously planned strength training routines that help Olympic athletes reach the pinnacle of their sport.
Lower back pain is a common complaint among people of all ages, often manifesting during activities that involve bending over. Whether it occurs while picking up a heavy object, gardening, or simply tying shoelaces, this pain can be both debilitating and frustrating. Understanding the causes and incorporating strength training into your routine can significantly alleviate and prevent lower back pain.
In today’s world, staying fit and healthy is a priority for many. However, the traditional route of hiring a personal trainer can be expensive and sometimes impractical. Enter AI personal trainers, which are transforming the fitness landscape by offering highly personalized, adaptive workouts at a fraction of the cost.
Remote personal training has evolved significantly with the advent of advanced technologies. Today, a diverse range of remote trainers utilize innovative tools to enhance fitness experiences. From virtual reality and augmented reality to AI-driven apps, remote personal training is more accessible and engaging than ever before.
When it comes to leg workouts, the cable machine often gets overlooked in favor of free weights and other resistance equipment. However, incorporating cable exercises into your leg routine can significantly enhance your strength, stability, and overall muscle development. The cable machine offers constant tension throughout the movement, which can lead to greater muscle engagement and hypertrophy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to an effective cable leg workout.
Cable pec exercises are a staple in many strength training routines, providing unique advantages over traditional free weight exercises like the bench press. These exercises not only help in developing chest muscles but also play a crucial role in enhancing joint stability and preventing injuries, particularly in the shoulder region.
When it comes to building a strong, shapely backside, isolation exercises for the glutes are essential. Unlike compound movements that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously, isolation exercises specifically target the gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus. This focused approach ensures that the glutes get the maximum benefit from each movement. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best glute isolation exercises to help you achieve your fitness goals.
Strengthening the quadriceps is essential for improving athletic performance, enhancing functional movements, and preventing injuries. Dumbbells offer a versatile and effective means to target these muscles through various exercises. This article highlights ten of the best dumbbell quad exercises, incorporating findings from the study “Does the Dumbbell-Carrying Position Change the Muscle Activity in Split Squats and Walking Lunges?” by Petr Stastny and colleagues.
When it comes to building strong, well-defined shoulders, incorporating cable shoulder workouts into your routine can provide the necessary stimulus for growth and strength. Recent research by Campos et al. highlights the effectiveness of different shoulder exercises in activating various portions of the deltoid muscles, offering insights that can optimize your training regimen.
Body fat is a crucial component of overall health, influencing everything from metabolic function to disease risk. While many methods exist to measure body fat, few are as accurate and comprehensive as the DEXA scan. Here, we’ll explore what DEXA scan results can tell you about your body fat and how to interpret these findings for better health outcomes.
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has long been popular for improving cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. Traditionally, HIIT routines focus on lower body exercises, primarily through cycling or running. However, recent research highlights the potential benefits of incorporating upper body exercises into HIIT regimens.
The quest to optimize muscle strength and hypertrophy has long intrigued fitness enthusiasts and researchers alike. This study, led by Alexandre Lopes Evangelista and colleagues, investigates whether a Split Workout Routine or a Full-Body Workout Routine is more effective in enhancing muscle strength and hypertrophy in untrained individuals.
The upper body ergometer, often referred to as an “arm bike,” is a versatile piece of fitness equipment that is essential for various fitness and rehabilitation programs. This article explores a workout routine using an upper body ergometer, and the benefits it offers for physical therapy.
In the modern era, many people face significant challenges in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The pressures of daily life, combined with an overload of information and generic fitness advice, often lead to frustration and abandonment of fitness goals.
Are you looking to build strong, defined arms without the need for expensive gym equipment? Calisthenics might be the perfect solution for you. This form of exercise relies on bodyweight movements to build muscle, improve endurance, and enhance overall fitness. In this article, we will guide you through a comprehensive calisthenics arm workout that can help you achieve impressive results from the comfort of your home.
In the world of superfoods, a new marvel is taking the health and wellness community by storm: Longevity Spinach. This leafy green, known scientifically as Gynura procumbens, is celebrated for its incredible health benefits, earning it a revered spot in the garden of nutritious foods. But what exactly is Longevity Spinach, and why should you consider incorporating it into your diet? Let’s delve into this superfood and uncover its myriad benefits.
Physical therapy workouts play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process, helping individuals regain strength, mobility, and overall well-being. Epic physical therapy workouts, designed to be both effective and enjoyable, can significantly enhance recovery and improve quality of life. Here, we explore some exceptional physical therapy exercises that can help you feel better, faster.
The Arnold Split, famously named after legendary bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger, remains a timeless and highly effective workout routine designed to target major muscle groups with precision and intensity. Originally a 3-day program, modern bodybuilders have expanded it into a more comprehensive 6-day split, allowing for increased focus on each muscle group while giving them adequate recovery time.
Working out at home has become a popular option for many fitness enthusiasts. Whether you’re avoiding crowded gyms, juggling a busy schedule, or simply prefer the convenience, a well-structured workout plan can help you stay fit and healthy.
If you spend hours hunched over a computer, you’re likely familiar with the persistent ache in your neck and upper back. This discomfort isn’t just a minor inconvenience; for many, it’s a symptom of myofascial pain — a condition characterized by sensitive trigger points in the muscles. While this might sound daunting, there’s good news: emerging research supports a surprisingly robust solution — strength training.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a chronic pain disorder characterized by muscle pain and tenderness.
Creating a home gym can be a great way to stay fit without the hassle of commuting to a gym. However, choosing the right equipment, especially for leg workouts, can be challenging.
Weight training is essential for wrestlers to build the strength and power needed to overcome opponents. Basic lifts like deadlifts, bench presses, and squats are good but might not be enough on their own.
While exploring Reddit, we came across discussions about Ozempic and its potential side effects, particularly concerning joint pain and a condition colloquially known as "Ozempic Butt." Here’s what we discovered from the community!
“Hi, I am setting up my mini home gym. Over the past year, I haven’t exercised and have gained 30 lbs. Is buying a bench good enough for weight loss and muscle building if I use it for various exercises? I’d appreciate your advice. Thanks!”
When it comes to achieving impressive arms, the barbell stands as a critical tool in your fitness kit. Its versatility and ability to engage multiple muscle groups make it a go-to for significant gains in both size and strength. Whether you’re an experienced lifter or just starting out, this comprehensive barbell arm workout will guide you to sculpt your biceps and triceps effectively.
As we age, maintaining physical fitness becomes increasingly important for overall health and quality of life.
In today’s fast-paced world, finding the time and motivation to maintain a fitness routine can be challenging. Enter Kiwi Fitness, an innovative virtual personal trainer powered by advanced AI technology, designed to help users achieve their wellness goals with ease and efficiency.
“I’m running my first ultra in July and want to prevent injuries since I’m very injury-prone. I’m currently doing strength training but unsure what areas to focus on. Should I concentrate on legs or core? Any recommendations on specific exercises would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!”
Having good wrist and hand strength is a marker for overall muscle strength. In athletes, it’s crucial for improving performance and preventing injuries, but it’s equally important for healthy adults. Low grip strength can predict an increased risk of functional limitations and disability as we get older.
Achieving a healthy weight after having a baby can be challenging. Instead of focusing on “getting your body back,” aim to create a healthy and happy you. Here’s how to do it effectively.
As we get older, keeping our bones strong and healthy is key for staying mobile and independent. Strength training is awesome for seniors because it does more than just keep muscles in shape — it significantly boosts bone density. This is super important for preventing osteoporosis and avoiding those nasty fractures.
Ozempic (semaglutide) is popular for managing type 2 diabetes and weight, but it can cause muscle loss, impacting health and quality of life. How can we lose fat while keeping muscles strong?